Burrows

California ground squirrel burrows are about 4 inches in diameter, although older burrow entrances can occasionally be quite a bit larger. The length of burrow systems often ranges between 5 and 30 feet. Most burrow systems are within 2 to 3 feet of the surface of the ground, but they may occasionally be up to 6 feet or more in depth. Burrows can be single tunnels or complex branching systems. They may be occupied by a single squirrel or occupied by many.

Belding's ground squirrel is somewhat less colonial, and its burrows are more widely dispersed. The burrows extend to about 2 feet below ground. Their openings can be widened by predators such as the American badger (Taxidea taxus). This causes further loss of crops and creates mounds that can damage farm machinery.

Inactive burrows will have leaves and debris in the entrance (Photo: Monica Dimson/UCCE)

Signs of inactive burrows:

spider webs

leaves and debris in entrance

Scats

Ground squirrel scat (feces) is often easy to spot near burrow entrances. It varies in size and shape depending on the moisture content of the ground squirrel’s diet. High moisture content results in a soft, twisted scat with tapered ends. Moist scats can also be clumped together. In areas where the moisture content of the diet is lower, scats are similar to deer pellets: they are often pointed at one end and have a dimple at the other end. ​California ground squirrel feces are 0.16-0.3 inches in diameter and 0.24-0.75 inches long. Belding's ground squirrel feces are generally about 0.12 -0.31 inches in diameter and 0.31-0.83 inches in length.